Guidance through the probate process for families in Lakeway and the Lake Travis area.
Schedule a Consultation →When a family member passes away, their estate generally needs to go through probate — the court-supervised process of validating a will, paying debts, and distributing assets to heirs. PEEPL Law represents executors, administrators, and family members through every stage of Texas probate administration, from the first court filing to the final distribution.
We work with families in Travis County and the surrounding Hill Country area, including Lakeway, Bee Cave, Steiner Ranch, Spicewood, The Hills, Falconhead, Sweetwater, Rough Hollow, and Travis Club.
PEEPL Law handles the full range of Texas probate matters:
Texas probate has features that differ from other states:
This is the default in Texas when a will provides for it or when all heirs agree. It significantly reduces court involvement, attorney fees, and the time required to close an estate compared to dependent administration. See Texas Estates Code Chapter 401.
The Texas Constitution provides important safeguards for surviving spouses and minor children. See Texas Estates Code Chapter 102 on homestead rights and exempt property.
Probate matters in Travis County are heard at the Heman Marion Sweatt Travis County Courthouse in downtown Austin. The court has its own local rules and procedures.
Texas Estates Code § 256.003 generally requires that a will be filed for probate within four years of the testator's death. Beyond that, alternative procedures like muniment of title may be the only available option.
We meet to understand the estate, the family situation, and what's already been done. We review the will (if any), the asset list, and any time-sensitive matters.
We prepare and file the application with the appropriate probate court. Texas requires a waiting period before the prove-up hearing, during which notice is provided to interested parties.
A brief hearing where the executor is sworn in. The court issues Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration giving the executor authority to act on behalf of the estate.
The executor identifies assets, pays valid debts, files an inventory with the court, and prepares for distribution. We support the executor throughout.
Assets are distributed to beneficiaries. Independent administrations close without further court involvement; dependent administrations require a final accounting and court approval.
Most independent administrations take six to nine months from filing to distribution. Simpler matters can finish in less time; estates with disputes, complex assets, or out-of-state property can take longer.
Texas probate courts generally require an attorney to represent the estate when an executor is appointed. Pro se representation by an executor is not permitted in most Texas probate proceedings because the executor represents the estate's interests, not just their own.
When someone dies without a will (intestate), Texas law determines who inherits through the Estates Code's intestate succession rules. Heirship determination is the procedure to establish those heirs through the probate court.
The family home (homestead) has special protections under Texas law. A surviving spouse generally has a right to occupy the homestead for life, even when the home passes to other heirs. We help families understand how these protections apply.
Costs vary widely based on the size of the estate, whether independent or dependent administration applies, and whether disputes arise. Court filing fees, publication fees, and attorney fees all factor in. We discuss expected costs at the initial consultation.
PEEPL Law represents families across Travis County and surrounding Hill Country areas. Initial consultations are confidential and focused on your specific situation.
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Visiting this site or contacting our firm through this site does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Every legal situation is unique, and you should consult with a qualified attorney to obtain advice tailored to your specific circumstances. PEEPL LAW disclaims any liability for actions taken based on the information contained herein.
